Prize for a Faculty Member for Research in an Undergraduate Institution
To honor a physicist whose research in an undergraduate setting has achieved wide recognition and contributed significantly to physics and who has contributed substantially to the professional development of undergraduate physics students. The prize consists of a $5,000 stipend to the prize recipient and a separate $5,000 unrestricted grant for the research to the prize recipient's institution. An additional allowance will be provided for travel expenses to the APS meeting at which the prize ceremony will take place, and a certificate citing the contributions by the recipient. The prize is presented annually.
Rules and eligibility
The prize will be given to a physics faculty member at an undergraduate institution. The recipient will have been recognized as contributing substantially to physics research and providing inspirational guidance and encouragement of undergraduate students participating in this research. A nominee must be from the faculty of a predominantly undergraduate institution in the United States. The nominee's department may offer a program leading to a masters degree but shall not have a doctoral program in physics. Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.
In addition to the normal requirements for an APS Prize or Award, nominations for this Prize should also include a publication list that highlights student co-authors, including whether these students are high school, undergraduate or graduate students.
Process and selection
The nomination package must include:
- A letter of not more than 5,000 characters evaluating the qualifications of the nominee(s).
In addition, the nomination should include:
- A biographical sketch.
- A list of the most important publications.
- At least two, but not more than four, seconding letters.
- Up to five reprints or preprints.
In addition to the normal requirements for an APS Prize or Award, nominations for this Prize should also include a publication list that highlights student co-authors, including whether these students are high school, undergraduate or graduate students.
Selection Committee
- Neal Abraham (Chair)
- Daniel Claes
- Geraldine Cochran
- Lars English
- Susan Blessing
Establishment and support
The prize was established in 1984 by a grant from the Research Corporation for Science Advancement, a private foundation for the advancement of science and technology.
Recent recipients
Will Raven
2025 recipient
For high precision laser spectroscopy of complex atoms and the percent level verification of quantum electrodynamics in Beryllium-9, and for innovative and extensive involvement of undergraduate students at Smith College in this research.
Lars Q. English
2024 recipient
For innovative experiments involving undergraduate students on nonlinear patterns in electrical lattices and networks that have elucidated the interplay of nonlinearity and geometry in the emergence of coherent spatial and temporal structures.
Rae M Robertson-Anderson
2023 recipient
For pioneering microrheology and microscopy experiments that elucidate the mechanics and dynamics of bio-inspired soft matter systems and complex biopolymer networks, and advancing undergraduate physics research and curriculum.
Derek F. Jackson Kimball
2022 recipient
For innovative methods in dark matter detection, exemplary contributions to research, and high impact teaching to a diverse undergraduate student body using research projects.
Gordon Jones
2021 recipient
For outstanding contributions to fundamental neutron physics, development of neutron polarizers using optically polarized helium-3, and extraordinary engagement and education of undergraduate students.
APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.
Nominees for and holders of APS Honors (prizes, awards, and fellowship) and official leadership positions are expected to meet standards of professional conduct and integrity as described in the APS Ethics Guidelines. Violations of these standards may disqualify people from consideration or lead to revocation of honors or removal from office.